Orihuela ITV strikes flood Murcia test centres with appointments
Business is up by 20% in the Region of Murcia as drivers flock across the border from Alicante
While the strike in the network of technical inspections of vehicles (ITV) in the Valencian Community continues, the test centres in the Region of Murcia are enjoying a surge in demand. Many drivers are flocking over the border from the Orihuela Costa to Murcian stations to avoid long wait times, resulting in a 15% to 20% increase in inspections at nearby stations, according to the association representing regional test centres.
The liberalisation of the sector in the Region of Murcia several years ago has led to the proliferation of new inspection stations, says José Francisco Puche, manager of a test centre in Yecla and representative of the association. This has attracted a loyal customer base from the Alto Vinalopó region and the Villena areas in particular, drawn by the faster and more efficient service offered by Murcia stations.
In contrast, the Valencian Community's decision to revert the service to public management after the concession period for private companies expired has resulted in demands for better working conditions, particularly salaries, from the workers. Ongoing strikes have caused disruptions and delays for drivers seeking inspections, creating an opportunity for Murcian stations to capitalise on the situation.
Up until now, the ITV strikes in Orihuela Costa and the rest of Valencia have been confined to two days a week, but all-out work stoppages have now been announced. Despite the recent escalation, ITV stations in the Region of Murcia believe the dispute will be resolved soon and since the increase in business is likely only temporary, they are happy to make hay while the sun shines.
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